20” Rotary Mowers
Model Series — 020
Model 020 Shown
FORM NO. 770-1025A
WARNING: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near
any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust
system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark
arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above is required by law (section 4442 of the California Public
Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A
spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or
contact the service department, P.O. Box 368022, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
Important: Read Safety Rules and
Instructions Carefully
WARNING
: The Engine
Exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the
State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
DANGER: Your lawn mower was
built to be operated according to
the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power
equipment, carelessness or error
on the part of the operator can
result in serious injury. This lawn
mower is capable of amputating
hands and feet and throwing
objects. Failure to observe the
following safety instructions
could result in serious injury or
death.
1) GENERAL OPERATION
• Read this operators manual carefully in its
entirety before attempting to assemble this
machine. Read, understand, and follow all
instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before operation. Be completely
familiar with the controls and the proper use
of this machine before operating it. Keep this
manual in a safe place for future and regular
reference and for ordering replacement parts.
• Your rotary mower is a precision piece of power
equipment, not a plaything. Therefore,
exercise extreme caution at all times. Your
unit has been designed to perform one job: to
mow grass. Do not use it for any other
purpose.
• Never allow children under 14 years old to
operate a power mower. Children 14 years
old and over should only operate mower
under close parental supervision. Only
responsible individuals who are familiar with
these rules of safe operation should be
allowed to use your mower.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons,
particularly small children and pets. Stop
engine when they are in the vicinity of your
mower to help prevent blade contact or
thrown object injury. Although the area of
operation should be completely cleared of
foreign objects, an object may have been
overlooked and could be accidentally thrown
by the mower in any direction and cause
serious personal injury to the operator or any
others allowed in the area.
• Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-
fitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that
cover the arms and legs and steel-toed
shoes are recommended. Do not wear loose
fitting clothes or jewelry. They can be caught
in moving parts. Never operate a unit in bare
feet, sandals, slippery or light weight (e.g.
canvas) shoes.
• Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles
during operation or while performing an
adjustment or repair, to protect eyes from
foreign objects that may be thrown from the
machine in any direction.
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the
equipment is to be used. Remove all stones,
sticks, wire, bones, toys and other foreign
objects which could be picked up and thrown
by the mower in any direction and cause
serious personal injury to the operator or any
others allowed in the area. Plan your mowing
pattern to avoid discharge of material toward
roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. To
help avoid a thrown objects injury, keep
children, bystanders and helpers at least 75
feet from the mower while it is in operation.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating
parts. Keep clear of discharge opening at all
times as the rotating blade can cause injury.
• Many injuries occur as a result of the mower
being pulled over the foot during a fall. Do not
hang on to the mower if you are falling;
release the handle immediately.
• Never pull the mower toward you while you are
walking. If you must back the mower away
from a wall or obstruction first look down and
behind, and then follow these steps:
• Step back from the mower to fully extend
your arms.
• Be sure you are well balanced with sure
footing.
• Pull the mower back slowly, no more than
half way toward you.
• Repeat these steps as needed.
• Do not operate the mower while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on
units so equipped while starting engine.
• The blade control handle is a safety device.
Never attempt to bypass its operation. Doing
so makes the safety device inoperative and
may result in personal injury through contact
with the rotating blade. The blade control
handle must operate easily in both directions
and automatically return to the disengaged
position when released.
• Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always
be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can
cause serious personal injury. Keep a firm
hold on the handle and walk, never run. If you
feel you are losing your footing, RELEASE
THE BLADE CONTROL HANDLE
IMMEDIATELY and the blade will stop
rotating within three seconds.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives,
walks or roads.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine and check
immediately for the cause. Vibration is
generally a warning of trouble.
• Shut the engine off and wait until the blade
comes to a complete stop before removing
the grass catcher or unclogging the chute.
The cutting blade continues to rotate for a
few seconds after the engine is shut off.
Never place any part of the body in the blade
area until you are sure the blade has stopped
rotating.
• Never operate mower without proper guards,
grass catcher, plates or other safety
protective devices in place.
• Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
• Only use accessories approved for this machine
by the manufacturer. Read, understand, and
follow all instructions provided with the
approved accessory.
• If situations occur which are not covered in this
manual, use care and good judgment.
Contact your dealer for assistance.
Telephone 1-800-800-7310 for the name of
your nearest dealer.
2) SLOPE OPERATION
• For your safety, use the slope gauge included as
part of this manual to measure slopes before
operating this unit on a sloped or hilly area. If
the slope is greater than 15 degrees as
shown on the slope gauge, do not operate
this unit on that area or serious injury could
result.
DO:
• Mow across the face of slopes; never up and
down. Exercise extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes.
• Watch for holes, ruts, hidden objects, or bumps.
Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can
cause serious personal injury. If you feel you
are losing your balance release the blade
control handle immediately and the blade will
stop in less than 3 seconds.
DO NOT:
• Do not mow near drop-off, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
• Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as
shown on the slope gauge.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing
could cause slipping.
2) CHILDREN
• Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not
alert to the presence of children. Children are
often attracted to the mower and the mowing
activity. Never assume that children will
remain where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under
the watchful care of a responsible adult other
than the operator.
• Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the
area.
• Before and while moving backwards, look
behind and down for small children or other
objects.
• Never allow children under age 14 to operate the
mower. Children 14 years of age and above
should read and understand the operation
instructions and safety rules in this manual.
• Use extreme care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that
may obscure your vision of a child or hazard.
3) SERVICE
• Use extreme care in handling gasoline and other
fuels. They are extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
• Use only an approved gasoline container.
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the
engine is running. Allow engine to cool at
least two minutes before refueling.
• Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe off any
spilled gasoline before starting the engine as
it may cause a fire or explosion.
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
• Never refuel machine indoors because
flammable vapors will accumulate in the
area.
• Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame or spark such
as a gas water heater, space heater, or
furnace.
• Never run an engine inside a closed area.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass,
leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil
or fuel spillage. Allow mower to cool at least
5 minutes before storing.
• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make
certain the blade and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and
keep the wire away from the spark plug to
prevent accidental starting.
• Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also,
visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent,
cracked or worn). Replace with blade which
meets original equipment specifications listed
in this manual.
• Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure
the equipment is in safe working condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
remove the wire from the spark plug, and
thoroughly inspect the mower for any
damage. Repair the damage before starting
and operating the mower.
• Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height
adjustment while the engine is running.
• Grass catcher components are subject to wear,
damage and deterioration, which could
expose moving parts or allow objects to be
thrown. For safety protection, frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer’s recommended parts, when
necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra
caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor setting or
overslept the engine. Excessive engine
speeds are dangerous.
WARNING:YOUR
RESPONSIBILITY
Restrict the use of this power
machine to persons who read,
understand and follow the
warnings and instructions in this
manual and on the machine.
IMPORTANT
Section 1: Safe Operation Practices
WARNING: THIS SYMBOL POINTS OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WHICH, IF NOT FOLLOWED, COULD ENDANGER THE PERSONAL SAFETY
AND/OR PROPERTY OF YOURSELF AND OTHERS. READ AND FOLLOW ALL
INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE YOUR
LAWN MOWER. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT
IN PERSONAL INJURY. WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL, HEED ITS WARNING.
Figure 1
Section 2: Slope Guide
Section 3: Finding the Mower Model Plate
This Operators Manual is an important
part of your new walk behind mower. It will
help you assemble, prepare and maintain
your mower. Please read and understand
what it says.
Before you start to prepare your
mower for its first use, please locate the
model plate and copy the information from it
in the space below. The information on the
model plate is very important if you should
ever need help from your dealer or the MTD
customer support department.
Every walk behind has a model plate.
You can locate it by standing behind the unit
in the operating position and looking down at
the rear of the deck.
The model plate will look like Figure 2.
MTD PRODUCTS INC
CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136
Section 4: Calling Customer Support
If you are having difficulty assembling
this product or if you have any question
regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the
Customer Support Department. You can
reach them by dialing:
1-800-800-7310
Before you call, make sure that you have
your model and serial numbers ready. By
having the model and serial numbers ready,
you help the Customer Support
Representative give you faster service. To
find the mower's model and serial number,
see Section 3: Finding the Mower Model
Plate.
Figure 2
XXX-X-XXX-X-XXX XXXXXXXXXX
This is the mower model number.
This is the mower serial number.
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
For ONE YEAR from the date of retail
purchase within the United States of
America, its possessions and territories, the
manufacturer will, at its option, repair or
replace, for the original purchaser, free of
charge, any part or parts found to be
defective in material or workmanship. This
warranty covers units which have been
operated and maintained in accordance with
the operating instructions furnished with the
unit, and which have not been subject to
misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect,
accident, improper maintenance or
alteration.
Normal wear parts or components
thereof are subject to separate terms as
noted below in the “No Fault Ninety Day
Consumer Warranty” clause.
All normal wear part failures will be
covered on this product for a period of 90
days regardless of cause. After 90 days, but
within the one year period, normal wear
parts failures will be covered ONLY IF
caused by defects in material or
workmanship of OTHER component parts.
Normal wear parts are defined as batteries*,
belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags,
rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid
shoes, shave plates and tires.
How to obtain service: Warranty
service is available, with proof of purchase,
through your local authorized service dealer.
To locate the dealer in your area, please
check the yellow pages or contact the
Customer Service Department of the
manufacturer, P. O. Box 368022, Cleveland,
Ohio 44136-9722. Phone 1-800-800-7310.
The return of a complete unit will not be
accepted by the factory unless prior written
permission has been extended by the
service department of the manufacturer.
Transportation charges:
Transportation charges for the movement of
any power equipment unit or attachment are
the responsibility of the purchaser.
Units exported out of the United
States: The manufacturer does not extend
any warranty for products sold or exported
outside of the United States of America, its
possessions and territories, except those
sold through the manufacturer’s authorized
channels of export distribution.
Other Warranties:
The engine or component parts
thereof carry separate warranties from their
manufacturers. Please refer to the
applicable manufacturer’s warranty on these
items.
*Batteries are covered by a 90-day
replacement warranty.
Log splitter pumps, valves and
cylinders or component parts thereof are
covered by a one year warranty.
All other warranties, express or
implied, including any implied warranty of
merchantability or fitness for a particular
purpose, are hereby expressly disclaimed in
their entirety.
The provisions as set forth in this
warranty provide the sole and exclusive
remedy of the manufacturer’s obligations
arising from the sales of its products. The
manufacturer will not be liable for incidental
or consequential loss or damage.
How state law relates to this warranty:
This limited warranty gives you specific legal
rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state. Certain
disclaimers are not allowed in some states
and therefore they may not apply to you
under all circumstances.
NOTE: This warranty does not cover routine
maintenance items such as
lubricants, filters, blade sharpening
and tune-ups, or adjustments such
as brake adjustments, clutch
adjustments or deck adjustments.
Nor does this warranty cover normal
deterioration of the exterior finish
due to use or exposure.
Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty
Locator Part Description
Number Number
1 710-0654A Screw 3/8-16:1.00 HX Ind Washer
2 782-0048 Deck - 20”
3 749-1077 Lower Handle
4 749-1076 Upper Handle
5 747-0976 Bail
6 731-0872A Trail Shield
7 17098 Hinge Clip
8 710-1044 Screw 3/8-24: 1.50 - Gr8
9 936-0524A Support: Blade Bell
10 753-0588 Blade Adapter Kit (Incl. Ref. 8 &9)
11 742-0640 Blade
12 731-0064 Discharge Chute
13 710-0932 Screw 1/4-20: 1.00 Carriage
14 736-0173 Flat Washer .28ID x .74OD x .063
15 712-0324 Lock Nut 1/4-20
16 710-3008 HHCS 5/16-18: .75
17 712-3004A Lock Nut 5/16-18
18 710-1205 Eye Bolt 1/4-20
19 710-0262 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18: 1.50 lg.
20 736-0119 Lock Washer 5/16
21 712-0267 Nut 5/16-18
22 734-1779 Wheel
23 738-0533 Shoulder Screw .498 x 1.635
24 736-0105 Bell Washer .401ID x .870OD x.063
25 712-0798 Fl. Lock Nut 3/8-16
26 726-0240 Cable Tie
27 746-0946 Control Cable (021C)
27 746-0957 Control Cable (020B)
28 736-0331 Bell Washer .39ID x 1.13OD x .062
29 See Engine Manual
Section 5: Illustrated Parts List
Trouble Possible Cause(s) Corrective Actions
Engine fails to start Blade control handle disengaged. Engage blade control handle.
Spark plug wire disconnected. Connect wire to spark plug.
Dirty air cleaner. Refer to the engine manual
packed with your unit.
Primer button not depressed. Refer to the engine manual
packed with your unit.
Throttle control lever not in correct Move throttle lever to FAST or
starting position (if so equipped). START position.
Fuel tank empty or stale fuel. Fill tank with clean fresh
gasoline. Fuel will not last over thirty days
unless a fuel stabilizer is used.
Blocked fuel line (if so equipped). Clean fuel line.
Faulty spark plug. Clean, adjust gap or replace.
Engine flooded. Refer to the engine manual
packed with your unit.
Engine runs erratic Spark plug wire loose. Connect and tighten spark
plug wire. Check spark
plug for fouling.
Blocked fuel line (if so equipped) Clean fuel line; fill tank with
or stale fuel. clean, fresh gasoline.
Fuel will not last over thirty days
unless a fuel stabilizer is added.
Vent in gas cap plugged.
Clear vent or threads or replace.
Water or dirt in fuel system. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
Dirty air cleaner. Refer to the engine manual
packed with your unit.
Carburetor out of adjustment. Refer to the engine manual
packed with your unit.
Engine overheats Engine oil level low. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
Dirty air cleaner. Refer to the engine manual
packed with your unit.
Air flow restricted. Stop engine and disconnect
spark plug wire.
Remove blower housing and clean.
Carburetor not adjusted properly. Refer to the engine manual
packed with your unit or see an
authorized service dealer.*
Occasional skip Spark plug gap too close. Adjust gap to .030".
(hesitates) Carburetor idle mixture Refer to the engine manual
at high speed adjustment improperly set. packed with your unit.
Idles poorly Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap Reset gap to .030" or replace
too wide. spark plug.
Carburetor improperly adjusted. Refer to the engine manual
packed with your unit.
Dirty air cleaner. Refer to the engine manual
packed with your unit.
Excessive vibration Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. Tighten blade and adapter.
Balance blade.
Bent cutting blade. See an authorized service dealer.
Uneven cut Wheels not positioned correctly. Place all four wheels in same height
position.
Dull blade. Sharpen or replace blade.
Section 6: Trouble Shooting Guide
Note: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments above, contact your local authorized service dealer.
Call 1-800-800-7310 to locate a dealer near you.
Section 5: Illustrated Parts List
— cut along dotted line —
WARNING!
Do not mow on inclines
with a slope in excess of 15
degrees (a rise of
approximately 2-1/2 feet every
10 feet). A riding mower could
overturn and cause serious
injury. If operating a walk-
behind mower on such a slope,
it is extremely difficult to
maintain your footing and you
could slip, resulting in serious
injury.
Operate RIDING mowers
up and down slopes, never
across the face of slopes.
Operate WALK-BEHIND
mowers across the face of
slopes, never up and down
slopes.
5
4
15
18
27
19
19
20
21
7
6
23
24
22
24
22
23
16
17
16
15
14
23
13
22
22
9
8
10
25
25
24
24
23
11
2
12
1
3
10
26
REFER TO
ENGINE MANUAL
28
28
29
28
28
Instructions
Step by Step
Follow the Step-by-Step instructions to properly assemble and
familiarize yourself with this mower.
Section 1 - Safe Operation Practices
See the reverse side. Read before using the
mower.
Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty
See the Reverse side
Section 2 - Slope Guide
See reverse side. Cut out on dotted line to
use the slope guide.
Section 3 - Finding the Mower Model Number
Locate and record model number and serial
number of the unit. See the reverse side.
Section 4 - Calling Customer Support
Customer Support Number. See the reverse
side.
Section 5 - Illustrated Parts List
See the Reverse side.
Section 6 - Trouble Shooting Guide
See the Reverse side.
Section 7 - Hardware Pack
Use this to identify all loose parts.
Section 8 - Unpacking the Unit
a) Unpacking
b) Tools Required for Assembly
c) Disconnect the Spark Plug Wire
Section 9 - Set-up Instructions
a) Attaching the Lower Handle
b) Attaching the Upper Handle
c) Attaching the Brake Cable
d) Attaching “Z” Fitting
e) Securing the Cable
f) Attaching the Wheels
g) Attaching the Chute Deflector
h) Attaching the Starter Rope
Section 10 - Controls
a) Blade Control Handle
b) Recoil Starter
Section 11 - Operation
a) Gas and Oil Fill-up
b) To Start Engine and Engage Blade
c) To Stop Engine and Blade
d) Using Your Rotary Mower
Section 12 - Adjustments
a) Cutting Height Adjustment
b) Carburetor Adjustments
Section 13 - Lubrication
a) Blade Control
b) Wheels
c) Engine
Section 14 - Maintenance
a) Trouble Shooting - See the reverse side
b) Cutting Blade
c) Single Bolt Blade Mounting
d) Blade Mounting Torque
e) Deck
f) Engine
g) Rear Flap Replacement
Section 15 - Off-Season Storage
Preparing the mower for storage.
Section 9: Set-Up Instructions
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE
or OIL in the engine. After assembly, and before
operating, service the engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed with
your mower.
NOTE: Reference to the right or left hand side of the mower is
observed from the operating position.
Before assembling the mower, lay out the hardware
according to the hardware pack illustrations. The illustrations
are grouped by steps. For example, the hardware used to
attach the lower handle to the cutting deck is grouped under the
heading (Used for step 9a).
Follow the steps in sequence, and remember to read all
safety instructions and warnings.
9a) ATTACHING THE LOWER HANDLE
1) Raise the rear of the deck and block securely.
2) Place the lower handle, (pointed end down) over the deck
and align the holes in the deck with the holes in the handle.
See Figure 4.
3) Install the hex bolts and flange nuts. Using two 1/2”
wrenches tighten securely.
Figure 4
9b) ATTACHING THE UPPER HANDLE
1) Place the upper handle in position over the lower handle.
With the blade control handle facing up.
2) Secure the upper handle to the lower handle using the
carriage bolts, split washers and hex nuts as shown in figure
5. The head of the carriage bolts go on the outside of the
handle.
Figure 5
9c) ATTACHING THE BRAKE CABLE
Note: The brake cable is attached to the engine at the factory.
The free end requires assembly.
1) Route the cable under the lower handle.
2) On the opposite end of the cable housing is a snap fitting.
The shaft inside of the snap fitting fits in the lower hole on
the left handle. Press the snap fitting in place. See figure 6.
3) Make certain the blade control handle is on top of the upper
handle.
Figure 6
9d) Attaching “Z” Fitting
Reattaching the Blade Control Handle
Note: To reassemble the blade control handle to the upper
handle, first identify the proper holes in the upper handle.
This can be done by placing the blade control handle flat
against the upper handle. The ends of the blade control
handle will approximate the hole positions. Insert the curved
end of the blade control handle into the right hole. Squeeze
the handle in and insert the straight end of the blade control
handle into the left hole of the upper handle. Squeeze the
blade control handle against the upper handle to check for
proper assembly. See Figure 7.
Figure 7
The hole in the control handle must be on the left side of
the upper handle, and the control handle must touch the upper
handle when engaged (squeezed against the upper handle).
1) Hold the cable end near the left side of the upper handle
and hook the “Z” end of the brake cable into the control
handle from the inside to the outside.
See figure 8.
Figure 8
9e) SECURING THE CABLE
Warning: When attaching the control cable, the
cable must be routed to avoid contact with all
sharp edges and hot surfaces to prevent damage
to the cable, which will render the controls
inoperative.
Secure the cable to the lower left handle near the base of
the unit with a cable tie. See Figure 9 below. Trim excess end
of cable tie.
Figure 9
9f) ATTACHING THE WHEELS
The holes provide three cutting heights for your mower.
Use the same hole location for all four wheels when
assembling. For example, if wheels are to be assembled in the
lowest cutting position, use highest hole in the deck.
1) To assemble the wheels, see figure 10 below.
2) Block up the mower securely.
3) Place axle bolt through the wheel. (Hub side of the wheel
must face the deck.)
4) Place the small bell washer on the axle bolt. Crown side
towards wheel.
5) Secure the wheel to the deck with the large bell washer and
nut.
6) Assemble the other wheels in the same manner.
7) Remove blocks.
Figure 10
9g) ATTACHING THE CHUTE
DEFLECTOR
Align the holes in the chute deflector with the holes on the
deck, see figure 11 below.
Place the carriage bolts from underside of the deck up
through the chute deflector.
Secure each bolt with a washer and lock nut.
Figure 11
9h) ATTACHING THE STARTER ROPE
Loosely attach the rope guide from the out side of the
handle to the inside and start the lock nut. (loose).
The starter rope is inside the top of the engine. With the
spark plug wire disconnected and grounded, depress the blade
control handle and pull the rope out of the engine.
Slip the starter rope in the gap between rope guide and
handle. Secure with hex lock nut, see figure 12 below.
Figure 12
Section 10: Controls
10a) BLADE CONTROL HANDLE
Warning:This control mechanism is a safety
device. Never attempt to bypass its operations.
The blade control handle is located on the upper
handle of the mower. The blade control handle must be
depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the blade
control handle to stop the engine and blade.
Warning: The blade will be rotating when ever the
engine is running.
10b) RECOIL STARTER
The recoil starter handle, when assembled, is attached to
the upper handle and is used to start the engine.
Section 11: Operation
Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting
deck. See figure 1, warning label in the Safe Operations
Section.
Warning:The operation of any lawn mower can
result in foreign objects being thrown into the
eyes, which can result in severe eye damage.
Always wear safety glasses or eye shields. We
recommend wide vision safety mask for over
spectacles or standard safety glasses.
11a) GAS AND OIL FILL-UP
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the separate engine manual packed with your mower. Read
instructions carefully.
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors, with engine
running or until the engine has been allowed to
cool for at least two minutes after running.
11b) TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE
BLADE
NOTE: Your engine is a constant speed engine, which is set at
full throttle for best performance.
1) Attach spark plug wire securely to spark plug.
2) Prime engine as instructed in the separate engine manual.
3) Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control handle
and hold it against the upper handle as shown in figure 14.
Figure 14
4) Grasp the starter handle and pull the rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope will pull
slightly harder at this point). Let the rope rewind slowly.
5) Pull the rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. Keep
a firm grip on starter handle. Return it slowly to the rope
guide.
NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to the Trouble
Shooting Guide on the reverse side of this manual.
11c) TO STOP ENGINE AND BLADE
1) Release the blade control handle to stop the engine and
blade.
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate for a few
seconds after the engine is shut off.
2) Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the
engine to prevent accidental starting while equipment is
unattended.
11d) USING YOUR ROTARY MOWER
Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage the lawn mower or engine.
Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any
direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator and
others.
For best results, do not cut wet grass because it tends to
stick to the underside of the mower, preventing proper
discharge of the grass clippings, and could cause you to slip
and fall. New grass or thick grass may require a narrower cut.
The best mowing pattern is one that allows the clippings
to discharge towards the uncut part of the lawn. This permits
recutting of the clippings to further pulverize them. When
cutting high weeds, discharge towards cut portion, then recut at
right angles to first direction.
For a healthy lawn, never cut off more than one-third
of the total length of the grass. Lawn should be cut in the fall
as long as there is growth.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the
engine. Remove the wire from the spark plug,
thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage,
and repair the damage before restarting and
operating the mower. Extensive vibration of the
mower during operation is an indication of
damage. The unit should be promptly inspected
and repaired.
Section 12: Adjustments
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustment to lawn mower without first stopping
engine and disconnecting spark plug wire.
12a) CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
Adjustments may be made by removing and moving the
axle bolts to the desired position. The cutting height will be
raised as axle bolts are moved to a lower hole and lowered as
the axle bolts are moved to a higher hole in the deck. All the
axle bolts must be mounted in the same relative position. Refer
to figure 10 (Section 9f - Attaching the Wheels).
12b) CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: If any adjustments are made to the
engine while the engine is running (e.g.
carburetor), keep clear of all moving parts. Be
careful of heated surfaces and muffler.
Minor carburetor adjustment may be required to
compensate for differences in the fuel, temperature,
altitude and load. Refer to the separate engine manual
packed with your mower for carburetor adjustment information.
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to run rough. Be
certain the air cleaner is clean and attached to the
carburetor before adjusting carburetor.
Section 13: Lubrication
WARNING: Always stop the engine and disconnect
the spark plug wire before cleaning, lubricating or
doing any kind of work on the lawn mower.
LOCATE THE LUBRICATION SYMBOL IN THE
LARGE MOWER ILLUSTRATION ABOVE.
Blade Control—Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control
handle and the brake cable at least once a season with
light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both
directions.
Wheels—The wheels require no lubrication. However, if the
wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the
surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the
wheel with light oil. Engine oil may also be used.
Engine—Follow engine manual for lubrication instructions.
Section 14: Maintenance
WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and ground the
spark plug wire before performing any repairs or
maintenance.
NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank and keep
engine spark plug side up.
14a) TROUBLE SHOOTING
Refer to the reverse side of this manual for trouble shooting
information.
14b) CUTTING BLADE
When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or
replacement, protect hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to
grasp the cutting blade. Remove the bolt and blade support
which hold the blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft.
Remove the blade and adapter from the crankshaft.
WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade adapter
for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object.
Replace when necessary.
When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of
grind as a guide. It is extremely important that each cutting
edge receives an equal amount of grinding to prevent an
unbalanced blade. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive
vibration when rotating at high speeds, may cause damage to
the mower and could break, causing personal injury.
The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round shaft
screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side until it
balances evenly. It is recommended that the blade always be
removed from the adapter for the best test of balance.
Before reassembling the blade and the blade adapter to
the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface
of the blade adapter with light oil (or engine oil). Lubricating the
bolt holes, bolts and inner surface of the nuts is also
recommended.
14c) SINGLE BOLT BLADE MOUNTING
Figure 15
Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the “star”
away from the engine. Refer to figure 15 above. Place the
blade with the side marked bottom (or with part number) facing
away from the adapter. Align the blade bell support over the
blade with the tabs in the holes of the blade and insert the hex
bolt. Tighten the hex bolt to the torque listed in the “Blade
Mounting Torque” section below.
14d) Blade Mounting Torque
Center Bolt: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
To ensure safe operation of your unit, the bolt must be
checked periodically for correct torque.
14e) DECK
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after
each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings, leaves, dirt or
other matter. If this debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite
rust and corrosion, and may cause an uneven discharge of
grass clippings at the next cutting.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug
wire is disconnected).
14f) ENGINE
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate engine
manual packed with your unit. Read and follow instructions
carefully.
Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding usually
indicates that the air cleaner should be serviced. To service the
air cleaner, refer to the separate engine manual packed with
your unit.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the
start of each mowing season; check engine manual for correct
plug type and gap specifications.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to permit
proper air circulation which is essential to engine performance
and life. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt and combustible
debris from muffler area.
14g) REAR FLAP REPLACEMENT
The rear flap is attached to the back of the mower deck,
and is designed to minimize the possibility that objects will be
thrown from the rear of the mower toward the operator. If the
rear flap becomes damaged, replace as follows:
To remove the old rear flap, compress the hinge clips and
remove from the slots in rear of the deck. Attach a new rear flap
by placing new spring clips in the slots on the flap. Then
compress the spring clips and reinsert in slots in rear of deck.
Section 15: Off-Season Storage
The following steps should be taken to prepare lawn
mower for storage.
1) Clean and lubricate the mower thoroughly as described in
the lubrication instructions.
2) Refer to the engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.
3) Coat the mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.
4) Store the mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly
vented or metal storage shed, care should be taken to rust-
proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the
equipment, especially cables and all moving parts.
Starter
Handle
Blade
Control
Handle
Section 7: Hardware Pack
8a) UNPACKING THE UNIT 8b) TOOLS REQUIRED FOR
ASSEMBLY
(2) 1/2” Wrenches
(1) 7/16” Wrench
(1) 9/16” Wrench
(1) 3/4” or Adjustable Wrench
(two 6” Adjustable Wrenches may be used instead of
the above.
Attaching Lower Handle
Used for step 9a
Attaching Chute Deflector
Used for step 9g
Attaching Starter Rope
Used for step 9h
Attaching Upper Handle
Used for step 9b
Attaching Wheels
Used for step 9f
Hex Bolt
710-3008
5/16-18:.75
Carriage Bolt
710-0932
1/4-20:1.00
Carriage Bolt
710-0262
5/16-18:1:00
Shoulder Bolt
738-0533
.498 x 1.635
Cable Tie
726-0240
Flat Washer
736-0173
.28ID x .74OD x .063
Bell Washer
736-0105
.401 x .870
Hex Nut
712-0267
5/16-18
Lock Washer
736-0119
5/16 Regular
Nut
712-0798
3/8-16
Lock Nut
712-0324
1/4-20
Lock Nut
712-0324
1/4-20
Fl. Lock Nut
712-3004A
5/16-18
Bell Washer
736-0331
.39ID x 1.13OD
4
4
4
4
2
2
2
4
4
Attaching Control Cable
Used for step 9e
2
2
2
9a
9b
9g
9h
10a
10b
8c
9c
9e
9d
Eye Bolt
710-1205
1/4-20
9f
LUBE
LUBE
LUBE
LUBE
LUBE
Figure 3
Carriage Bolt
Lock Washer
Hex Nut
Hole
Rope Guide
Lock Nut
Carriage Bolt
Washer
Axle Bolt
(Shoulder)
Wheel
Large Bell
Washer
Cutting Deck
Hex
Nut
Small Bell
Washer
Lock Nut
8c) DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG
WIRE
Disconnect the spark plug wire while assembling.
Reconnect spark plug wire after assembling.
Section 8: Unpacking the Unit
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